Karen Kurtz
About Karen Kurtz
Karen Kurtz serves as the Director of School Channel Strategy at Sallie Mae, a position she has held since 2017. With a background in product development and strategic sales, she has over two decades of experience in the financial services sector.
Work at Sallie Mae
Karen Kurtz has been with Sallie Mae since 1997, serving in various roles over the years. Currently, she is the Director of School Channel Strategy, a position she has held since 2017. Prior to this role, she worked as the Director of Sales Proposal Management from 2010 to 2017, and as Director of Strategic Sales from 2005 to 2010. She also held the position of Product Manager for a year in 2004 and served as Manager of Product Development from 1997 to 2004. Throughout her tenure, she has contributed to multiple projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiencies and product offerings.
Education and Expertise
Karen Kurtz studied at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a degree in Economics and Public Administration from 1986 to 1990. She also attended Wilkes University, focusing on Management for one year in 1991-1992. Her educational background supports her expertise in product development and strategic sales within the financial services sector.
Background
Karen Kurtz has extensive experience in the financial services industry, particularly in the areas of product development and sales strategy. She has worked at Sallie Mae for over two decades, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the company's operations and customer needs. Her roles have involved managing teams and coordinating input from various stakeholders to drive product initiatives.
Achievements
During her career at Sallie Mae, Karen Kurtz has implemented a new proposal management software system to improve operational efficiencies. She has also led the development of an online loan application system, managing seven teams of employees. Her focus on designing loan products and services ensures they meet the needs of both external and internal customers while adhering to regulatory compliance.